Global Initiatives

The following are the major organisations in other parts of the world promoting the Fair Trade concept, and / or certifying Fair Trade products:

The Fair Trade Federation (FTF)

The Fair Trade Federation is an association of fair trade wholesalers, retailers, and producers whose members are committed to providing fair wages and good employment opportunities to economically disadvantaged artisans and farmers worldwide. FTF directly links low-income producers with consumer markets and educates consumers about the importance of purchasing fairly traded products which support living wages and safe and healthy conditions for workers in the developing world.

FTF also acts as a clearinghouse for information on fair trade and provides resources and networking opportunities for its members. By adhering to social criteria and environmental principles, Fair Trade Organisations (FTOs) foster a more equitable and sustainable system of production and trade that benefits people and their communities. Website: www.fairtradefederation.org

Fair Trade Labelling Organisation International (FLO)

FLO is the worldwide Fairtrade Standard setting and Certification organisation. It permits more than 800,000 producers and their dependants in more than 40 countries to benefit from labelled Fairtrade. FLO guarantees that fair trade certified products sold anywhere in the world conforms to Fairtrade Standards and contributes to the development of disadvantaged producers. FLO helps consumers distinguish fairly traded products in the marketplace through the provision and monitoring of a logo or seal that is offered to traders which buy from registered cooperatives in developing countries and abide by fair trade criteria. Website: www.fairtrade.net

International Federation of Alternative Trade (IFAT)

Established in 1989, IFAT is a coalition of more than 70 Alternative Trade Organisations (ATOs) from more than 30 nations. Through IFAT, handicraft and agricultural producer organisations in developing countries and ATOs from both the North and South unite to offer a just alternative to unfair trade structures and practices. IFAT advocates with national governments and international trade institutions for the rights of exploited producers and provides information services to its members to both help increase sales and enhance the benefits of fair trade. Website: www.ifat.org

TransFair USA

TransFair USA is one of nineteen members of Fairtrade Labelling Organisations International (FLO), and the only third-party certifier of Fair Trade products in the United States. TransFair audits transactions between US companies offering Fair Trade Certified™ products and the international suppliers from whom they source, in order to guarantee that the farmers and farm workers behind Fair Trade Certified goods were paid a fair, above-market price. In addition, annual inspections conducted by FLO ensure that strict socioeconomic development criteria are being met using increased Fair Trade revenues. Website: www.transfairusa.org

European Fair Trade Association (EFTA)

EFTA is an association of 11 fair trade organisations in 9 European countries. It was established in January 1990 after 10 years of informal cooperation. EFTA seeks to stimulate practical cooperation between its members, develop common policies and offer joint support to producers and strives for the adoption of fair trade principles in commercial trading in Europe. EFTA members import from over 550 producer groups in 44 countries. Website: www.eftafairtrade.org

Network of European World Shops (NEWS!)

The Network of European World Shops initiates and coordinates promotional activities among more than 2,500 dedicated World Shops and 100,000 volunteers in 15 member countries across western and eastern Europe. World Shops sell fairly traded products, stage exhibitions, campaigns, plays and petitioning. NEWS! produces informational materials, supports the professionalization of member countries’ World Shops and conducts political lobbying. Website: www.worldshops.org

The Fair Trade Resource Network

Based in Washington D.C., the Fair Trade Resource Network seeks to improve people’s lives through Fair Trade alternatives by providing information, leadership and inspiration. The Resource Network gathers, develops and disseminates educational resources to individuals and organisations interested in the movement to build a more just and sustainable world through Fair Trade. Website: www.fairtraderesourcenetwork.org